Dr. Mazhar Jakhro: Caring for skin in your older years

Skin care is part of being healthy. As you get older, your skin changes. Because of those changes, it is important to know how to care for your skin in your older years and what to watch for.

Skin care is part of being healthy. As you get older, your skin changes. Because of those changes, it is important to know how to care for your skin in your older years and what to watch for.

in Senior Years

There are two main conditions that you can expect to find in your skin as you get older. The condition that almost everyone experiences is drier skin. The older we get, the less ability our skin has to retain moisture.

The other problem that older adults often encounter is thin skin. Because your skin is getting drier it also gets thinner. Thin skin is can easily tear. Tears in the skin can result in infections if bacteria gets into the wound. Infections are harder to fight off in the older years so it is important to avoid infections of any kind whenever possible.

In your senior years you can avoid skin infections and problems by making sure you take care of dry skin properly. Start by making sure that it is always clean. Wear absorbent clothing that prevents sweat from sticking to your skin. Pay special attention to armpits, feet, and the groin, as these areas are prone to sweat and dampness. On the other hand, don't bathe or shower too often or in water that is too hot. A bath or shower every other day is fine and warm water is just as effective as hot water when it comes to getting clean.

Choose body cleansers carefully. Anything that bubbles a lot is likely to contain an ingredient called sodium laureth sulfate, which can dry out the skin. Cleansers that are cream based are better.

You can avoid problems like pain, cracked skin and itching by making sure that your skin is hydrated. After a shower, treat your skin to a cream that will seal in your natural moistures like a hydrating cream. You can buy these in most drug stores or you can get a prescription for a cream from your doctor if you are already having dry skin problems.

One of the main reasons that we get itchy skin is because there are tiny little scratches in the surface of our skin that we can't see. These tiny scratches can let in bacteria, which can result in infections and cause itchiness. Scratching these itches can be harmful because it will make the tears bigger and spread the infection.

If you have itchy skin you can use a bathing oil or talc to prevent fungal growth in areas that are prone to sweat and dampness. A humidifier in the home can also prevent the air from getting dry and drying out your skin.

and Maintenance

Check your skin on a daily basis. Watch for red areas and moles that have changed shape or color or that have become larger in a short amount of time. Be aware of sores that are not healing or new sores. Watch for peeking or cracked skin. If you find any of these conditions, consult your doctor.

Dr. Mazhar Jakhro specializes in family medicine, part of Southcoast Physicians Group, practicing at Southcoast Health System at Rosebrook. Dr. Jakhro is accepting new patients and can be reached at 508-273-4950.

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